Biotechnology Past Paper Questions

1. Outline the process of DNA profiling (genetic fingerprinting), including ways in which it can be used. 6 marks

sample of DNA obtained / leucocytes / from mouthwash / hair / other named source satellite DNA / repetitive sequences used for profiling amplification of DNA by polymerase chain reaction / PCR cutting DNA into fragments using restriction enzymes separation of fragments of DNA (by electrophoresis) separation according to the length of the fragments pattern of bands obtained / different pattern of bands with DNA from different individuals used for criminal investigations / example of use in criminal investigation used to check paternity / who is the father / mother / parent used to check whether two organisms are clones

2. Outline DNA profiling (genetic fingerprinting), including one way in which it has been used. 5 marks

DNA profiling: 4 max sample of DNA / blood / saliva / semen is obtained reference samples of DNA are obtained PCR used to amplify / produce more copies of the DNA DNA broken into fragments by restriction enzymes DNA fragments are separated by gel electrophoresis DNA separated into a series of bands bands compared between different samples if pattern of bands is the same then DNA is (almost certainly) from same source if some bands are similar then individuals are (almost certainly) related specific example: 1 max testing of paternity / forensics / classification / archeology / another specific example

3. Outline a technique for transferring genes between species. 5 marks

gene of interest is cut out with restriction enzyme RNA used to produce DNA using reverse transcriptase plasmid cut open with same restriction enzyme gene inserted into plasmid blunt ends / sticky ends spliced together by DNA ligase recombinant plasmids are cloned / many copies produced recombinant plasmids are inserted into new host cells / virus / bacteriophage / yeast inserted by shooting / spraying / microencapsulation / by heat treatment

4. Describe the technique for the transfer of the insulin gene using E. coli. 6 marks

mRNA is extracted DNA copy of RNA is made using reverse transcriptase plasmids are cut open with endonucleases (at specific sequences) insulin gene and plasmid are mixed together addition of 'sticky ends' to the DNA copy (so that it will combine with the cut plasmid) DNA ligase will seal the plasmid recombinant plasmid is inserted into E. coli E. coli is cultured E. coli begins to make insulin

5. Discuss the potential benefits and possible harmful effects of genetic modification. 7 marks

named example of desired outcome e.g. herbicide resistance Award 6 max if no named example given. Award 5 max if both possible benefits and possible harmful effects are not addressed. Possible benefits: 4 max benefits include more specific (less random) breeding than with traditional methods faster than traditional methods some characteristics from other species are unlikely in the gene pool / selective breeding cannot produce desired phenotype increased productivity of food production / less land required for production less use of chemical (e.g. pesticides) food production possible in extreme conditions less expensive drug preparation e.g. pharmaceuticals in milk human insulin engineered so no allergic reactions may cure genetic diseases Possible harmful effects: 4 max some gene transfers are regarded as potentially harmful to organism (especially animals) release of genetically engineered organisms in the environment can spread and compete with the naturally occurring varieties some of the engineered genes could also cross species barriers technological solution when less invasive methods may bring similar benefits reduces genetic variation / biodiversity